Pacer Mitchell Johnson ready to bowl first change in World Cup

Perth, Feb 2 (IANS) Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Johnson on Monday said he is open to the idea of bowling first change in the World Cup should the team demand that of him.

"We've got two left-armers and got to think about what's best for our team - if it's me coming on first change I'd be happy to do that," Johnson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Johnson also added the decision would only be arrived upon after consultation with skipper George Bailey and Darren Lehman the head coach.

"I've always said I love opening the bowling for my country, (but) it will be something that game to game will come up in our team meetings. I'll talk to Darren (Lehmann) about it and George (Bailey) and the bowling unit," he said.

"Personally I've got confidence because I've been able to open the bowling, first change, second change, Powerplays. So I'm happy to bowl anywhere to be honest."

The 33-year-old had figures of three for 27 from seven overs on Sunday in the tri-series final against England after a month long rest. He bowled two outstanding deliveries that dismissed opener Moeen Ali and skipper Eoin Morgan. His other victim was right-hand batsman James Taylor.